It has been seven years since Veggielution was born in backyards near San Jose State University. I’m so proud of everything we have accomplished since then.

We have grown into a six-acre farm that supplies fresh, affordable produce for families in the South Bay who need it most. We have a vibrant community of more than 3,000 volunteers who share our belief that everyone deserves to have access to healthy, affordable food.

Together, we have built a truly special place where people connect with the land, see where their food comes from and perhaps most importantly work together to build a sustainable food system for everyone in our community.

But the time has come for me to change the role I play in our community. Effective Feb. 28, I am stepping down as executive director. Being the founding executive director of Veggielution has been a wild and exciting ride, full of joy. Now that it is coming to a close, I am planning to take some time off to recharge and explore before moving on to my next professional adventure.

The board has appointed vice-chair Cayce Hill to serve as interim executive director beginning March 1. Cayce is a professional gardener and restaurant consultant who designs and manages residential California native and edible gardens. Her professional experience includes prior positions as a garden manager, founding program manager of an agricultural internship program, and health policy researcher. She and I will work closely in the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition.

Veggielution was founded to educate people from all backgrounds about sustainable food systems, healthy eating and food access. Our farm is the centerpiece of all we do, the place where together we are creating a sustainable food system, promoting healthy eating, expanding food access and building a community of people committed to change.

Veggielution is not just one person. It is all of us together. I want to thank all of you for helping us cultivate a farm that unites people across cultures, generations and incomes to drive community change and build healthier, happier lives.